From public transportation to going to school, buses are a vital part of the city of Jacksonville. However, a collision with one of these massive vehicles can be catastrophic because of their size and weight, leaving victims with severe injuries and long-term complications.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, a Jacksonville bus accident lawyer from Fasig | Brooks could help you through the process of filing a claim to recover compensation. Our personal injury attorneys have experience handling cases involving government-operated vehicles and commercial carriers. We could protect your rights and secure the resources you need to rebuild your life.
Common Causes of Bus Collisions
Buses and operators must comply with federal and state safety regulations, yet accidents still occur because of driver negligence and mechanical issues. An experienced attorney could review the facts of your bus crash in Jacksonville to determine the cause and help you pursue recovery. Some of the most common include:
- Distracted driving, especially texting on a cell phone
- Fatigue from long shifts
- Reckless driving and speeding
- Inadequate training
- Poor road conditions or signal malfunctions
- Brake or tire failures
A bus wreck could result in serious harm to everyone involved, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and fractured bones. Passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists are all at risk when a large bus loses control.
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What Are the Legal Factors for Filing a Claim?
Bus crashes can be more complex than standard car accidents because most buses are owned and operated by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), a public agency. This brings up the issue of sovereign immunity, which is an old concept that says the government is not liable for damages, even if it was responsible for the incident. That is why the state waives its immunity for certain claims, including motor vehicle collisions, under Florida Statutes § 768.28. However, the statute also places limits on certain damages, and claimants must comply with specific notice requirements.
Depending on the situation, responsibility for a bus accident could rest with multiple parties, such as the bus driver, the bus company, a government agency, maintenance contractors, or the manufacturer of the vehicle or its components. Our lawyers could work to identify all parties responsible for a bus wreck in Jacksonville and hold them accountable for your injuries.
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Damages Available to Victims
When another person’s negligence causes your injuries, you have the right to seek economic and non-economic damages from the at-fault party. An attorney experienced in handling bus collision cases in Jacksonville could help you recover compensation for things like:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In fatal cases, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Our team could collaborate with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, and financial professionals to evaluate your situation to determine the full scope of the harm so you could recover everything you deserve.
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Get Help From a Jacksonville Bus Accident Attorney Today
At Fasig | Brooks, we believe in building lasting relationships with our clients. You are more than a case number to us; we are here to listen to your story and build a personalized strategy.
If you have been hurt, a Jacksonville bus accident lawyer from our team could help you recover the financial compensation you need. Contact Fasig | Brooks today to schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers.
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